Last Trimester: Tips for the Dad-to-Be

When the third trimester arrives it brings both feelings of excitement as well as nerves for the parents-to-be. While the mom will be going to the doctor and preparing for the big day, many dads are left wondering what they should be doing to prepare for the upcoming birth of their child. Here is a look at how new dads can prepare and some tips for helping their partners get ready to give birth.

If the parents have not already done so they should look into taking a birthing class especially if it is their first baby. These classes are not only great in helping both parents know what to expect when the actual delivery day arrives but they are also a great chance for them to bond together. Dads will learn how they can assist their wives during labor and how to care for the new baby if they have never had the experience of doing it before. Local hospitals and birthing centers are great places to look for these classes.

While the moms will need a hospital bag, dad can bring their own as well. Packing a bag with certain things such as snacks, a camera or camcorder is a great way to prepare. If there is no other children at home, some hospitals will allow the dads to stay at the hospital with the mom and newborn so packing some comfortable clothes, pajamas and toiletries is also a good idea. Just as the mom has her bag packed and prepared, dads should get theirs done as well so when the big day arrives they can just grab the bag and go.

Dads-to-be should also take advantage of the last trimester by taking their wives out on several dates before the baby arrives. Typically at this point in pregnancy most of the preparations have already been taken care of and both parents are just waiting. Dads-to-be should romance their wives and let them know how much they appreciate everything they have done and gone through in the past 9 months. Even doing something as simple as taking their wife out to a movie or for ice cream is a great way to show how much they appreciate them. It also gives the new parents a chance to spend some quality time alone before that new little bundle arrives.

Lastly, just being there emotionally is essential when it comes to what new dads can do to help their partners get ready to give birth. This is especially true if it is a first baby and the mom has never given birth before. By reassuring her and letting her know she can do it will make a world of difference and help strengthen the bond between parents before their baby arrives.